Green Ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None specified/Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 9; highly adaptable to extreme cold and varied urban environments.
About This Tree
A medium-sized deciduous tree with a dense, spreading, or rounded crown. Known for its rapid growth and adaptability to various soil conditions.
Leaf Characteristics
Pinnately compound, usually 5-9 leaflets; leaflets are ovate to lanceolate, medium green in summer turning yellow in autumn; opposite arrangement; margins are serrated or smooth.
Bark Characteristics
Grayish-brown with deep furrowing and interlacing ridges that form a distinct diamond-shaped pattern as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to North America (Eastern and Central United States and Canada)
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring, flowers before leaves emerge in spring, fruits (samaras) mature in late summer, dormant during winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun; requires moderate watering when young but is highly drought-tolerant once established; thrives in moist soils.
Mature Size
Reaches 50 to 70 feet in height with a spread of 35 to 50 feet; moderate to fast growth rate; lifespan typically 50-100 years.
Special Characteristics
Known for its yellow fall color and formerly high timber value; however, it is currently highly vulnerable to the Emerald Ash Borer beetle.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and small mammals; hosts various insect larvae; serves as a nesting site for songbirds.